Fix: Account Picture Error – Unable to Save Image

Key Notes

  • Removing old pictures may resolve the error.
  • Uninstalling recent updates can fix compatibility issues.
  • Performing repairs on your user profile can reset problematic settings.

Navigating the Account Picture Error in Windows: Solutions Explained

Experiencing the “This picture couldn’t be saved” error when setting an account picture in Windows can be frustrating. This guide walks you through practical solutions to ensure your profile picture is updated seamlessly.

Essential Steps to Overcome the Account Picture Error

Step 1: Remove Old Profile Pictures

Begin by deleting existing pictures to clear any corruption:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Paste the following path: C:\Users\yourname\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Windows\AccountPictures
  3. Change “yourname” to your actual Windows username.
  4. Select all pictures and delete them.
  5. Restart your computer and attempt to change your profile picture again.

Step 2: Uninstall Recent Windows Updates

Recent updates can sometimes introduce issues:

  1. Press Windows + I to access Settings.
  2. Select Windows Update, then navigate to Update history.
  3. Click on Uninstall updates.
  4. Identify and select the latest update to uninstall it.

Pro Tip: If this resolves the error, monitor for any new updates from Microsoft that address the issue.

Step 3: Execute DISM and SFC Scans

This step aims to fix corrupt system files:

  1. Open the Start Menu, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
  2. Run the commands:

    3. DISM.exe /Online /Cleanup-Image /Restorehealth sfc /scannow

Pro Tip: Ensure to restart your computer after running these commands.

Step 4: Repair Your User Profile

If your user profile is corrupted, this may resolve profile-related issues:

  1. Backup your Registry and create a restore point.
  2. Press Windows + R and type Regedit.
  3. Navigate to Computer\HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\ProfileList.
  4. Look for duplicate entries and rename the one with the .bak extension to .ba.
  5. Change the Value data of the State key from 1 to 0.
  6. Change the RefCount value from 0 to 1.
  7. Restart your computer.

Step 5: Create a New User Profile

Creating a new profile can bypass any issues with your current one:

  1. Open the Run console with Windows + R, type netplwiz, and click OK.
  2. Click on Add in the User Accounts window.
  3. Select Sign in without a Microsoft account (not recommended).
  4. Complete the necessary fields to create a local account.

Pro Tip: If the error doesn’t appear on the local account, it may be specific to your Microsoft account settings.

Step 6: Perform a System Restore

When other methods fail, restoring prior settings can help:

  1. Open the Control Panel and set the view to Large icons.
  2. Select Recovery and then Open System Restore.
  3. Choose Choose a different restore point.
  4. Select the desired restore point and click Finish.

Additional Tips

  • Always back up your important files before making system changes.
  • Keep your system regularly updated to avoid bugs and issues.
  • Consider using third-party tools for additional profile management.

Summary

Addressing the Account picture error in Windows often requires a combination of troubleshooting techniques including file management, system scans, and potential user profile repairs. Following these steps systematically can resolve the issue effectively.

Conclusion

By implementing these steps, you should effectively resolve the Account picture error. For persistent issues, further examination of your system settings and configurations may be necessary. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from professional troubleshooting services if required.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is the primary cause of the “This picture couldn’t be saved” error?

This error may occur due to corrupted user files, recent updates, or issues with the Windows profile itself.

Can I prevent this error from happening again?

To mitigate the risk of encountering this error, regularly update your Windows system and perform routine checks on your user account settings and profile health.